Toms River should build its own homeless shelter

This artwork by Donna Grethen relates to increased concern for the newly homeless during the holidays.

The homeless encampment in Toms River, near the Emerald Apartments complex and the northbound Garden State Parkway lanes, should be protected.

Homelessness should be recognized as a social and economic injustice. Homeless people must be free from arrest, harassment and discrimination based on housing status. Housing is a human right for all people.

As Ocean County has inhumanely refused to build a homeless shelter, the Township of Toms River should build its own shelter to ensure the safety and welfare of these citizens. We must take a local stand in Toms River to defend the human rights of the most vulnerable members of our community.

If the township does not have sufficient funds available to establish a homeless shelter, the mayor and council must make a public appeal for donations.

The Toms River Township Council should immediately create a Toms River Department of Homeless Advocacy, overseen by local clergy, civil rights leaders and professionals with relevant expertise.

We cannot wait for another homeless person to freeze to death or become the victim of a brutal attack before we stand up and address the issue of homelessness.

Eric Hafner

Toms River

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

Email this article

Toms River should build its own homeless shelter

The homeless encampment in Toms River, near the Emerald Apartments complex and the northbound Garden State Parkway lanes, should be protected.

A link to this page will be included in your message.

Real Deals

Sales, coupons, circulars and more from your favorite Jersey Shore area retailers.